Jeff Marshman

Genius who studied in Havant is off to Oxford University with five A and A*s under his belt

Amine Linganzi believes he can give Pompey a physical edge after catching the eye on his Blues debut at Coventry last night.

The Congo international impressed as the Blues bowed out of the EFL Cup in a 3-2 extra-time defeat to their League One opponents.

The holding midfielder, who signed a one-month contract at Fratton Park on Monday, was named The News’ man of the match following an accomplished showing alongside teenager Adam May in the centre of the park.

And the 26-year-old was proud of both his and his new team-mates’ efforts at the Ricoh Arena.

He said: ‘I am really, really proud to wear that shirt and I am happy with my debut.

‘I enjoyed it. The players were great and we worked really, really hard.

‘It was tough but we did well. I hope we are going to be lucky and win the next game.’

Most recently at French club Frejus, Linganzi has featured for Blackburn, Accrington – where he was managed by Blues assistant boss Leam Richardson – and Gillingham.

But while he is used to playing as a box-to-box midfielder, the rangy talent insists he was only too happy to try his hand in a different role last night.

That’s after Pompey boss Paul Cook asked him to be physical against Coventry.

‘I can bring physicality,’ said Linganzi, who also lauded the travelling support.

‘The gaffer has asked me to bring that impact.

‘Normally play box-to-box but the gaffer wanted me to protect the defence and I liked it. I enjoyed it

‘I am here to calm down the situation and allow others to breathe. I can be that guy.

‘I need to work hard in training to repeat that sort of play on a match day but then I think it is going to be good.

‘I am lucky to do my job, when people are travelling like this to support me.